How to Replace Rotten Brick Molding

by Denise Brown

The lower portion of a piece of brick molding often shows rot damage first.

Brick molding refers to the exterior trim on all types of windows and doors, whether the house is brick or not. Often this window casing trim is soft pine that deteriorates in the weather, especially if the joints are not caulked properly. It's fairly easy to replace rotten brick molding and save yourself the expense of hiring a professional.

Replacement Materials

As you begin this project, decide whether you want to replace the rotten brick molding with a similar wood product. If you prefer, you can purchase more expensive hardwood brick molding, which tends to last much longer. Wooden brick molding comes with a primer coat of paint. You must add additional paint to protect the wood. Manufacturers also sell low-maintenance vinyl brick molding. Vinyl molding comes in two basic styles. One is solid foam encased in vinyl and the other is solid vinyl.

Removing the Rotten Brick Molding

Before you remove the damaged brick molding, cut its caulking away from the exterior siding with a utility knife. Start at the lowest damaged corner and work your way up the side of the window or door, prying the brick molding loose with a pry bar as you go. Pull out all the nails. Tap the unexposed wood frame of the window or door with a hammer to make sure there is no rotten wood. If there is, replace it before replacing the brick molding.

Cut the New Molding

Take the old brick molding to the lumberyard with you so you can find a piece that is similar in profile and thickness. If you cannot find trim that is an exact match, purchase a section of molding that is slight thicker. You will need to trim it to fit the opening. Take a careful measurement of the opening. Cut the top angle at 45 degrees with a miter saw. For this cut, you are simply cutting off one end of the piece of molding. Make the 45-degreee angle cut 1/8-inch longer than you measured. This allows for the width of the saw blade. After you cut the brick molding, insert it into the opening to see if it is going to fit. Shave any excess off with a sharp knife.

Installation

Before you install the new molding, give its entire surface a coat of paint. Let the paint dry. Slide the molding into position and attach it with 2-inch 8- or 10-penny nails spaced 8 to 10 inches apart. If you prefer, you can attach the molding with a brad nailer and 2-inch brads, but you will still need to use a few nails set into the wall studs. If you don’t use galvanized nails, seat the nails with a nail set and cover their heads with a bit of exterior-grade filler. Paint the entire window frame and let it dry. Put caulking where the brick molding meets the siding to keep rainwater from seeping into the crevices.

About the Author

Denise Brown is an education professional who wanted to try something different. Two years and more than 500 articles later, she's enjoying her freelance writing experience for online resources such as Work.com and other online information sites. Brown holds a master's degree in history education from Truman State University.

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